A Visit with Ole Miss’ Butkus Award Finalist Chris ‘Pooh’ Paul Jr.: ‘I try to be the best version of myself every day’

OXFORD, Miss – In his first season as an Ole Miss Rebel, Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr. has earned many titles— a leader, a fighter, a motivator— and now, he has added Butkus Award finalist to the list. Paul is one of just five collegiate players named as a finalist for the award.

IMPACT PLAYER: Ole Miss linebacker Chris “Pooh” Paul, Jr. named one of five finalists for Butkus Award. Congrats to Pooh! https://t.co/8ExTiDwy4i

— The Rebel Walk (@TheRebelWalk) November 27, 2024

In fact, there has only been one other Butkus Award finalist in Ole Miss history— Patrick Willis. Reflecting on the rarity of this honor, Paul shared, “The Butkus Award means a lot to me. It’s something I’ve been working for since I started my collegiate career.”

After three seasons at Arkansas, Pooh Paul joined Ole Miss as one of many transfers looking to make an impact. From the start, he set clear goals for himself, with the biggest being to help the team reach the College Football Playoffs.

Yet, Paul was not just focused on his own success—his mindset was about elevating those around him.

Chris “Pooh” Paul Jr.

Coach Pete Golding: a perfect match with Paul’s passion 

With energy being an essential part of Paul’s game, he knew he needed someone who would match his passion and approach the game the same way. Coach Pete Golding, a high-energy style coach, met Pooh Paul Jr., a high-energy style player— a perfect match in Paul’s eyes. “He’s been a very good coach,” Paul said. “He is very versatile; he likes to do different things. He’s just a great leader, a high-energy guy who loves what he does.”

Defensive coordinator Golding has also been named as a finalist for the Broyles Award, which is given to the nation’s top assistant coach in college football. Pooh Paul speaks highly of Golding.

Pooh Paul on Pete Golding

Pooh Paul leads by example

Coach Golding’s ability to remain positive and focused despite adversity resonated with Paul, who has faced his fair share of challenges. Growing up in Cordele, Georgia, the Rebel linebacker developed a mindset that is not just about football—it is something he applies to life. “I try to lead by example and be a role model for those back home,” he shared. He wants others from his small town who may not always see a path to success, to use their dreams as fuel to keep going.  “I think about home a lot. That’s why I try to be the best version of myself every day,” he said.

The program and players at Ole Miss embraced him, helping Paul find a sense of belonging and motivating him to commit to continual growth. “They mean a lot to me,” Paul shared. “They brought me in; they didn’t treat me any differently. They welcomed me with open arms, and it was nice to get adjusted with my teammates and bond with them on and off the field.”

Paul also explained his feelings for Rebel Nation.

Pooh Paul on what Rebel Nation means to him

And showcase he did. Leading the team with 88 total tackles in the regular season, number eleven made his presence felt on the field. He recorded 50 solo tackles, 38 assisted tackles, 11 tackles for loss, totaling 48 yards, and 3.5 sacks for 27 yards. Additionally, his 9 quarterback hurries, 4 pass breakups, and an interception highlighted his ability to disrupt the opposing team’s offense in many significant ways.

Here’s another look of Pooh Paul with the interception of State’s Van Buren!

🎥: @KarisChambliss, Rebel Walk pic.twitter.com/t5Ai0iGNQF

— The Rebel Walk (@TheRebelWalk) November 29, 2024

The Butkus Award winner will be announced by December 10th, but one thing is certain: regardless of the outcome, Paul’s legacy as one of college football’s top defenders is already secured.

Stay tuned to The Rebel Walk for all your Ole Miss sports news!